Puducherry’s prison reforms: Jail Mahotsav, first of its kind initiative, wins accolades
The ‘model prison’ also has provisions for setting up organic farming, bakery unit, canteen and goshala (rearing of cows) not only to keep the prisoners engaged but also impart life skills so that once they walk out, they can earn a livelihood.
New Delhi: Puducherry is on a prison reform spree, ringing in a string of initiatives to improve the condition of inmates inside the jail premises and also to impart them life skills, so as to prepare them for their future life.
On October 9, the state administration launched ‘Jail Mahotsav’, a first-of-its kind initiative aimed at enhancing the living conditions and making the environment inside prison more friendly and lively.
The unique initiative saw several programs and folk dance performances by prison inmates, with active co-ordination of jail staff. One of the major highlight of the program was that family members of jail staff & prison inmates and senior government officials also became witness to the path-breaking initiative.
Puducherry Lt Governor Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan also graced the occasion as the chief guest and launched many initiatives like female prisoner’s yard, CCTV control room & many others.
Inaugurated “Jail Mahotsav” in Central Prision #Puducherry & launched various initiatives – upgraded visitor’s room ,female prisoner’s yard, new Library, CCTV Control Room under Model Prison Project.
Alongwith District Chief Judge, Chief Secretary,IG Prisions & Aurobindo Trustee. pic.twitter.com/bfnOCu8YjI— Lt. Gov. Puducherry (@LGov_Puducherry) October 9, 2021
Apart from Puducherry LG, District Chief Judge and Chief Secretary of the Union Territory also participated in the program.
The jail inmates & staff members, alongwith Aurobindo Society volunteers, put together a lively performance that was appreciated and admired by dignitaries and spectators alike. Many found the stage performances soul-stirring and filled with emotion. Some spectators were even left teary-eyed.
Jail mahotsav is first of its kind in India,appreciated prision dept for taking concerted efforts to provide all round welfare measures & infrastructure facilities in central prison.
Thank Aurobindo soceity for engaging variety of activities to bring out the best in the inmates. pic.twitter.com/Yv8Uambdqc— Lt. Gov. Puducherry (@LGov_Puducherry) October 9, 2021
Creating a model prison, many firsts in the offing!
Ravideep Singh Chahar, IG (Prisons), speaking to media persons spoke about series of initiatives being undertaken to create a ‘model prison’ in the Union Territory.
He briefed about the many firsts being undertaken in the Puducherry like launching a jail anthem, setting up a human library and CCTV cameras in the jail premises and building modern visitor rooms, equipped with intercoms & facilities like ‘talking through glasses’.
He also spoke about measures that the jail administration is taking up to instill positive change and help the inmates overcome anxiety and enhance self-esteem.
The ‘model prison’ also has provisions for setting up organic farming, bakery unit, canteen and goshala (rearing of cows) not only to keep the prisoners engaged but also impart life skills so that once they walk out, they can earn a livelihood.